Archive for September, 2009

Only 10% of these are orphaned due to death of a parent; the rest are social orphans – due to alcoholism, abandonment, or imprisonment of parents.

Every year, more than 2,000 mothers abandon their babies in maternity hospitals. Between 6 and 7 thousand more are abandoned at an older age or removed from home due to crime or neglect.

Many social orphans have experienced abuse and violence from parents who were drug addicts or alcoholics.

Orphans typically grow up in large state-run homes, which may house over 200 children.

Many children run away from these homes, preferring to live on the street.

Children usually graduate from these institutions between 15 and 16 years old and are turned out, unprepared for life outside the home.

About 10% of them will commit suicide after leaving the orphanage before their 18th birthday.

60% of the girls will end up in prostitution. Those who run prostitution rings target orphaned girls, who are especially vulnerable due to their lack of options and lack of people who care what happens to them. Though promised good jobs, they end up on the streets and brothels of cities across Europe.

70% of the boys will enter a life of crime. Many of these will die young of violence or end up in prison. Most inmates contract TB in prison.

The same day that kids from #4 and #5 celebrated Peace Day at Victoria Camp, the children at The Shelter put on a wonderful performance in celebration of Peace Day! Kids of all ages danced, sang, and recited verses related to the peace theme. They also enjoyed some great team oriented relay races. UAC staff and orphanage caregivers did a great job coordinating the festivities at The Shelter!

On Saturday, September 19th, the children from Orphanages #4 and #5 participated in a joyous Peace Day celebration organized by UAC at Victoria Camp! The day was fun-filled and included activities such as chalk drawing, coloring, watercolor painting, soccer games, relay races, jumping rope, temporary tatoos, singing, and much more! The concept of peace was celebrated by all– just check out the pictures and see for yourself!

Fontanka is one of the neediest institutions at this time. With very little funding from the State, the institution and the 48 boys who live there often go without. The following are considered urgent needs at Fontanka:

Roof repair for the educational building– $8,500 (see pictures below)

Funds for food (see pictures below)

New mattresses for 45-60 beds (see pictures below)

Art supplies– yarns, cloth, paint, beads, etc. The boys can create some really great artwork when the materials are available!

The entire building is in very rough shape.

Holes in the roof

View of the roof leak from within the building.

All of the mattresses are stained and soiled.

Soap and toiletries are rationed.

The boys take pride in growing vegetables in their greenhouse. The vegetables help offset the food shortages at Fontanka.

Boys in the hallway between classes

Boys at Fontanka

Food delivery for Fontanka

The boys were happy to receive fruit from UAC-- It's something that they don't get on a regular basis.

If you would like to help fulfill any of these needs, please do let us know! YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE!!!

Orphanage #34 is home to many children with special needs and learning disabilities. In order to prepare these children for life after the orphanage, the staff do their best to teach them trades such as bricklaying, woodworking, metalworking, sewing, arts, music/dance, etc. Unfortunately, materials to teach these trades are limited. The following items could greatly benefit the children at Orphanage #34!